Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler vs be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 Air CPU Cooler

Brand Overview

The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB CPU Air Cooler is manufactured by Thermalright, a brand with over 20 years of experience in computer accessories. In contrast, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 Air CPU Cooler comes from be quiet!, a company known for its focus on producing low-noise cooling solutions. While both brands have established their reputations in the market, Thermalright tends to appeal more to gamers and enthusiasts, whereas be quiet! targets users seeking a quieter computing environment.

Design and Build Quality

The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB features a compact design, measuring 120mm in length, 71mm in width, and 148mm in height. Weighing in at 0.63kg, it is relatively lightweight, making it suitable for medium-sized cases. On the other hand, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 is a more substantial unit, featuring seven high-performance copper heat pipes and a distinctive black coating with ceramic particles. This design not only enhances cooling efficiency but also contributes to an aesthetically pleasing look. The Dark Rock Pro 5 is designed for heavy-duty usage, particularly for overclocked systems, indicating a greater focus on performance-driven users.

Cooling Performance

When it comes to cooling performance, the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB is equipped with a PWM fan that operates at a maximum speed of 1550 RPM, providing an airflow of 66.17 CFM. It maintains a noise level of ≤25.6 dB(A), making it a quiet option for users. In contrast, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 excels in this area, featuring two Silent Wings PWM fans that can reach a maximum speed of 2000 RPM in Performance Mode. This allows it to effectively manage heat during demanding tasks while still operating quietly in Quiet Mode, where it caps at 1500 RPM. The ability to switch modes gives users flexibility based on their cooling needs.

Noise Levels

Noise levels are a critical factor for many users when selecting a CPU cooler. The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB operates at a maximum noise level of just 25.6 dB(A), making it an excellent choice for those who prioritise a quiet environment. In contrast, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 aims for even lower noise levels thanks to its decoupled fan mounting and vibration-isolating elements, reducing turbulence. While the exact noise levels in Quiet Mode are not specified, its design philosophy leans heavily toward maintaining silence, appealing to users sensitive to noise.

Installation Process

The installation process differs significantly between the two coolers. The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB offers a straightforward installation with metal fasteners compatible with both Intel and AMD platforms. This makes it relatively easy for users to set up. On the other hand, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 features a more elaborate installation concept, including a detachable mesh top cover and a completely black mounting kit that matches its aesthetic. This design aims to make installation simple and elegant, but it may require more effort to set up compared to its counterpart.

Compatibility

The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB supports a wide range of CPU sockets, including various Intel and AMD platforms such as LGA 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1200, 1700, and AM4/AM5. This broad compatibility ensures that it can be used with many modern systems. Similarly, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 is also designed to support a variety of Intel and AMD sockets, although specific details on compatibility are not mentioned. Users looking for a cooler that can easily fit into various builds will find both options accommodating.

Price Point

The price difference between the two coolers is notable. The Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB is priced at £16.29, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious consumers. In contrast, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 comes in at £75.99, reflecting its premium features and enhanced cooling capabilities. This substantial price gap indicates that users must weigh their cooling needs against their budget when choosing between the two products.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Thermalright Assassin X120 SE ARGB and the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 comes down to individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for an affordable, quiet cooler that performs adequately for general use, the Thermalright Assassin is a suitable choice. However, if you require superior cooling performance, especially for overclocking, and are willing to invest more, the be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 5 is the clear winner. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your specific cooling requirements, budget, and aesthetic preferences.